TRAVEL REPORT
Mexico

1. RECENT UPDATES

The level of Travel Warning in this report has not changed.

Section 3 has been updated (organized crime).

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2. WARNINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Mexico

Canadians travelling to Mexico should exercise a high degree of caution due to a deteriorating security situation in many parts of the country. While most major tourist areas have not been affected by the extreme levels of violence witnessed in the northern border region, it is highly advisable to travel to Mexico by air (please see our travel warning for the Mexico-United States border). High levels of criminal activity, as well as occasional demonstrations and protests, remain a concern throughout the country.

Mexico-United States Border

OFFICIAL WARNING: Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada advises against non-essential travel to the border areas between Mexico and the United States, due to continuously high levels of violence linked to drug trafficking in those areas.

Canadians should avoid crossing Mexico’s northern border by land, as shootouts, attacks, and illegal roadblocks may occur at any time. Criminals especially target SUVs and full-size pickup trucks for theft and carjacking along highways of the states of Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Baja California, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Sonora, and Sinaloa. Travellers are advised to reconsider their need to travel by land to or through these border states and should do so only if it is absolutely necessary, and after making appropriate arrangements to ensure their personal safety.

OFFICIAL REGISTRATION RECOMMENDATION: We offer a registration service for all Canadians travelling or living abroad. This service is provided so that we can contact and assist you in an emergency abroad, such as a natural disaster or civil unrest, or inform you of a family emergency at home. Registration can be done on-line or by contacting a Canadian government office abroad. For more information, see our FAQs on Registration of Canadians Abroad.

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3. SAFETY AND SECURITY

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. Travellers are responsible for their own personal safety. The Government of Canada takes the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provides credible and timely advice in its Travel Reports. In the event of a crisis situation that requires evacuation, the Government of Canada’s policy is to provide safe transportation to the closest safe location. Canada will assist Canadians in leaving a country or a region as a last resort, when all means of commercial or personal transportation have been exhausted. This service is provided on a cost-recovery basis. Onward travel is at the individual’s personal expense. Situations vary from one location to another, and there may be constraints on government resources, which can limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide assistance, particularly in countries or regions where the potential for violent conflict or political instability are high.

Organized Crime

In northern Mexico and all cities bordering the United States, organized crime and urban violence affect security. There has been a substantial rise in illegal roadblocks, robberies, kidnappings, and carjackings in larger northern cities, including Monterrey. Travellers have been attacked by heavily armed gangs while driving through Matamoros, Reynosa, and Nuevo Laredo in the state of Tamaulipas but also on highways in the states of Nuevo León, Coahuila, Durango, and Sinaloa. The state of Guerrero, which includes Acapulco, the state of Sinaloa, which includes Mazatlan and the city of Tepic in the state of Nayarit have also experienced a surge in drug related-violence.

Although foreigners are not commonly targeted, foreign residents and tourists have been victims of incidents due to drug-related violence. Canadians travelling to the states of Baja California (Norte), Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Guerrero, Michoacán, Morelos, Nuevo León, Tamaulipas, Sonora, and Sinaloa should be particularly aware of their surroundings, monitor local news, and provide friends or family in Canada with their itinerary.

In various parts of the country, military and federal police forces have been deployed in efforts to combat organized crime and improve security conditions. They maintain a visible presence patrolling the streets, setting up roadblocks, and conducting random vehicle checks. Armed clashes between security forces and drug groups are commonplace in certain areas and can occur at any time without warning. Travellers could get caught in the crossfire.

In the state of Chiapas, near the border with Guatemala, the use of firearms between criminal gangs has often been reported. While Canadians are not specifically targeted, they risk being in the wrong place at the wrong time. Law enforcement and police protection are often lacking.

General Safety Measures

Demonstrations and protests regularly occur in large cities. Canadians should avoid large gatherings and demonstrations, which could lead to violent incidents at any time. Participation in political demonstrations by foreigners is prohibited and may result in detention, expulsion, and the denial of future entry into Mexico.

Canadians travelling to the state of Oaxaca should monitor local media reports closely. Incidents, roadblocks, and clashes continue to occur in the city of Oaxaca. Beach resorts, such as Puerto Escondido and Huatulco, have not been affected by these events.

Warnings on swimming conditions posted on beaches should be taken seriously. Many beaches are not supervised or do not offer warnings. When in doubt, consult the hotel staff.

You should ensure the recreational activities you choose are covered by your travel insurance or by a local insurance policy. Ensure sporting and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition, especially for scuba diving. Many operators do not conduct regular safety checks. There have been cases of Canadians who have been involved in accidents where operators demanded compensation in excess of the value of the damage caused to the vehicle or equipment.

Exercise caution when standing close to balcony railings, as deaths and injuries have resulted from falls. Height standards for balcony railings in Mexico can be considerably lower than those in Canada.

Crime

Visitors should be aware of their surroundings at all times while travelling throughout the country, even in areas generally considered safe. Crimes, including armed robbery, purse snatching, and pickpocketing, occur frequently. The arrest and detention rate is low and contributes to high levels of criminality.

If you are the victim of a crime, report it immediately to the Agencia del Ministerio Público nearest to the crime scene. No criminal investigation is possible without a formal complaint to Mexican authorities. You must present photo identification. It is especially important to report the loss or theft of your identification documents (to Mexican authorities and to the Embassy of Canada or the nearest consulate of Canada in Mexico), in order to protect yourself should the documents later be misused.

For emergency services, dial 060 or 066.

Theft

Thefts occur regularly. You should dress down, avoid wearing or carrying expensive jewellery, and carry only small amounts of cash. Keep your luggage secure at all times. In resort areas, leave your passport and valuables in your hotel safe, not in your hotel room or on the beach, while you are swimming.

There have been reports of foreigners being targeted in assault and robbery incidents, which are sometimes violent. Victims have been followed upon exchanging or withdrawing large amounts of money in the arrival areas of Benito Juárez International Airport in Mexico City. It is therefore recommended that travellers avoid withdrawing or exchanging money in the public areas of the airport. Should you need to do so, small and only absolutely necessary financial transactions should be done before exiting the customs area.

You should withdraw or exchange money at automated banking machines (ABMs) or exchange bureaus (casas de cambio) during daylight hours only, and inside shops and malls rather than on the street. Keep your credit card in sight when paying.

Assault

Incidents of assault and sexual aggression against foreigners have been reported. In some cases, hotel employees, taxi drivers, and security personnel have been implicated. Avoid walking after dark, especially alone, and avoid deserted or under-populated areas. You should only frequent bars and nightclubs as part of a group and avoid separating from the group. In cases of sexual assault, police authorities will require a medical examination.

Be careful accepting food, drinks, invitations, or rides from strangers or recent acquaintances. Avoid leaving your food and drinks unattended in bars and restaurants. There have been cases of travellers being robbed or assaulted after being drugged. 

Kidnappings

Kidnappings occur frequently in large urban areas. The most common practice involves thieves working in cooperation with, or posing as, taxi drivers. The thieves force victims to withdraw money from ABMs with their debit or credit cards in exchange for their release. Kidnappers target both the wealthy and middle class. Foreigners are not specifically targeted.

Scams

Criminals posing as police officers have approached tourists and asked for their passports or for foreign currency. There have also been cases of legitimate police officers extorting money from tourists or arresting tourists for minor offences or traffic violations. If this occurs, you should not hand over your money or your passport. Instead, you should ask for the officer’s name, badge number, patrol car number, location of the arrest, and the written fine payable at a later date. Should you feel the fine cannot be justified, proceed to the nearest Agencia del Ministerio Público and Tourism Office to file a complaint.

Avoid divulging personal information to strangers either in person or over the phone. Virtual kidnapping by telephone is a common practice in Mexico. Should you receive a call from someone demanding payment for the release of an arrested or kidnapped family member, remain calm, note the phone number of the person calling, hang up, and report the call to local police. Scam artists have also gathered information on luggage tags in hotel lobbies and later convinced guests to give them their contact information in Canada. Afterwards, they have called parents of travelling Canadians to report that their child has been detained or hospitalized and have requested that money be wired to Mexico. If this occurs, parents or friends should request the name and number of the caller and contact the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa (toll‑free within Canada at 1-800-387-3124 or from Mexico at 001‑800-514-0129).

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4. ENTRY/EXIT REQUIREMENTS

It is the sole prerogative of each country or region to determine who is allowed to enter. All countries or regions have special requirements for persons intending to reside for extended periods (usually more than 90 days) or who plan to work, study, or engage in non-tourist activities. To obtain information on specific entry requirements, contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office of the destination(s) to be visited. Violations of entry and exit requirements may result in serious penalties.

The following information on entry and exit requirements has been confirmed with the Mexican authorities. However, these requirements are subject to change at any time. It is the traveller’s responsibility to check with the Embassy of the United Mexican States or its consulates for up-to-date information.

Since March 1, 2010, Canadian citizens, including those with dual nationality, are required to present a valid passport in order to enter and exit Mexico. Canadians without a valid passport will be refused entry and returned to Canada.

Canadians with a criminal record might be refused entry and returned to Canada on the next available flight. Canadians in this situation should contact the Mexican Embassy in Ottawa prior to making travel arrangements.

Permanent residents and landed immigrants of Canada should check for specific entry requirements with Mexico’s immigration authorities (Instituto Nacional de Migración, or INAMI) (information available in English).

Persons seeking to enter Mexico for purposes other than tourism are required to have a proper visa. Foreigners involved in unauthorized activities will be expelled. Please visit the Web site of the Embassy of Mexico in Canada for more information.

Tourist card (Multiple Migratory Form for Foreigners (FMM) provided by airlines or at points of entry): required
Business and work visa: required
Student visa: required
Visitor visa: required (for purposes other than tourism, including work)

Special and Diplomatic Passports

Special and diplomatic passport holders should verify all visa requirements for this and other destinations, as they may differ from those that apply to regular passport holders.

Tourist Card

Canadian tourists do not require a visa or a tourist card for stays of 72 hours or less within the border zone (20 to 30 kilometres from the U.S. border). For travel to Mexico beyond the border zone, Canadians must be in possession of a tourist card, also called Multiple Migratory Form for Foreigners (FMM). This document is provided by airlines or by immigration authorities at the country’s points of entry. If you enter Mexico by land, it is your responsibility to stop at the immigration facility located at the border.

In order to obtain a tourist card, Canadians are required to present a valid passport.

Authorities can demand to see your tourist card at any time. You must therefore carry the original or a copy at all times and must surrender the original upon leaving Mexico. Failure to do so will result in a fine and/or expulsion.

Your tourist card is stamped on arrival. If travelling by bus or car, ensure you obtain a tourist card and have it stamped by immigration authorities at the border. If you do not receive a stamped tourist card at the border, ensure that upon arrival at your destination within Mexico, you immediately go to the closest National Institute of Immigration office, present your bus ticket, and request a tourist card. Travellers who fail to have their tourist card stamped may be fined, detained, or expelled from the country.

An immigration official will determine the number of days you can remain in Mexico. Do not assume that you will be granted the full 180 days. An extension of your stay can be requested for a fee at the National Institute of Immigration of the Ministry of the Interior or its local offices.

If you plan to enter Mexico by car, please read the vehicle importation requirements in Section 9.

Tourism Tax

Mexican authorities impose a tourism tax (approximately US$20) for all visitors to Mexico. This fee is normally included in airline ticket prices. Visitors arriving by road (car or bus) or sea will be asked to pay this fee at any bank in Mexico (there is a bank representative at every port of entry). The bank receipt must be attached to the tourist card for submission at departure. Visitors entering by land, for tourism purposes only, are  exempt if their stay does not exceed seven days. Visitors to the northern border zone (20 to 30 kilometres from the U.S. border) and those going to Mexico on cruise ships are exempt.

Work Visa

Persons entering Mexico for purposes other than tourism are required to have a proper visa. Foreigners involved in unauthorized activities will be expelled.

It is recommended that you process your visa yourself. However, if a prospective employer is processing your business (or work) visa for you, ensure that you receive copies of all correspondence between the employer and Mexican immigration authorities, and that these copies are stamped by the immigration authorities as proof that your papers are indeed being processed. You should also request a receipt from your employer for any documents (e.g. your Canadian passport) that you provide for purposes of obtaining the visa. It is not recommended that your employer keep your passport for you.

Customs

Tourists are allowed to bring in their personal effects duty-free. Failure to declare personal effects will result in their confiscation and a fine. Mexican customs provides information in English regarding entry into Mexico by air or land. Travellers carrying more than US$10,000 or its equivalent in other currencies, cash, cheques, money orders, or any other monetary instrument must declare the amount exceeding US$10,000. Failure to make this declaration is against Mexican law and often results in detention.

Canadians wishing to donate goods should contact the Embassy of Mexico in Canada before sending or importing goods to Mexico in order to fulfill the importation permit requirements.

Dual Nationals

Mexico recognizes dual nationality for persons born in Mexico or abroad to Mexican parents. Under Mexican law, dual nationals entering and departing from Mexico must identify themselves as Mexican citizens. Travellers possessing both Mexican and Canadian citizenship must carry valid travel documents of both countries. Dual nationality status could hamper efforts of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada to provide you with consular protection.

A Certificate of Canadian Citizenship is not a travel document. A Canadian passport is the only reliable and universally accepted travel and identification document available to Canadians for the purpose of international travel. Canadian citizens returning to Canada who present other documents, such as a Certificate of Canadian Citizenship, birth certificate, provincial driver’s licence, or foreign passport, instead of a Canadian passport, may face delays or be denied boarding by transport companies.

Selling, altering, or allowing another person to use your passport is a criminal offence. It could lead to the laying of charges and imprisonment if convicted. It could also lead to the denial of future passport services.

Any adult travelling with children may be required to show evidence of parental/custodial and/or access rights. Foreign and Canadian authorities may also require evidence that the adult has the consent of the parents, legal guardian, and/or the court to travel with the children. Some countries or regions may not permit children to enter or, in some cases, leave the country or region without proper documentation such as a letter of consent or a court order.

Although same-sex marriages are legal in Canada, many countries or regions do not recognize them. Attempting to enter as a same-sex married couple may result in refusal by local officials. For more information, contact the foreign government office accredited to Canada.

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5. CANADIAN GOVERNMENT CONTACTS

You can obtain consular assistance and further consular information at the following addresses:

Mexico - MEXICO CITY, Embassy of Canada
Address: Calle Schiller No. 529, Colonia Polanco, 11580 México, D.F., México
Postal Address: P.O. Box 40-045, 06141 México, D.F., México,
Tel.: 52 (55) 5724-7900
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (55) 5724-7943
E-Mail: mxico@international.gc.ca
Internet: http://www.mexico.gc.ca
Consular district: Aguascalientes, Chihuahua, Coahuila, Durango, Estado de Mexico, Guanajuato, Hidalgo, Morelos, Mexico City, Puebla, Querétaro, San Luís Potosí, Tabasco, Tlaxcala, Tamaulipas, Veracruz, Zacatecas

If you are outside Mexico City, you can reach the Embassy by dialling 01-800-706-2900. This toll-free number is available throughout the entire country, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and is reserved for emergency calls concerning Canadians.

Mexico - ACAPULCO, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: Centro Comercial Marbella, local 23, Prolongación Farallon s/n, Esq. Miguel Alemán, 39670 Acapulco, Guerrero, México
Tel.: 52 (744) 484-1305, 481-1349
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (744) 484-1306
E-Mail: acapulco@canada.org.mx
Consular district: Guerrero, Michoacán

Mexico - CANCÚN, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: Centro Empresarial, Oficina E7, Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 12, Zona Hotelera, 77599 Cancún, Quintana Roo, México
Tel.: 52 (998) 883-3360/883-3361
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (998) 883-3232
E-Mail: cncun@international.gc.ca
Consular district: Campeche, Yucatán, Quintana Roo, except coast of Quintana Roo from Puerto Morelos to Tulum, and Cozumel Island

Mexico - GUADALAJARA, Consulate of Canada
Address: World Trade Center, Av. Mariano Otero 1249, Torre Pacifico Piso 8, Col. Rinconada del Bosque, 44530 Guadalajara, Jalisco, México
Tel.: 52 (33) 3671-4740
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (33) 3671-4750
E-Mail: gjara@international.gc.ca
Consular district: Jalisco (except for Puerto Vallarta and coastal region)

Mexico - MAZATLÁN, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: The Inn at Mazatlán, Av. Cameron Sábalo 6291, Zona Dorada, 82110 Mazatlan, Sinaloa, México
Tel.: 52 (669) 913-7320
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (669) 914-6655
E-Mail: mazatlan@canada.org.mx
Consular district: Sinaloa

Mexico - MONTERREY, Consulate General of Canada
Address: Torre Gomez Morin 955, Ave. Gomez Morin No. 955, Suite 404, Col. Montebello, 66279 San Pedro Garza Garcia, Nuevo Léon, México
Tel.: 52 (81) 8378-0240
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (81) 8356-9965
E-Mail: monterrey@international.gc.ca
Consular district: Nuevo León

Mexico - OAXACA, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: Pino Suarez 700, Local 11B, Multiplaza Brena, Colonia Centro, 68050 Oaxaca, Oaxaca, México
Tel.: 52 (951) 513-3777
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (951) 515-2147
E-Mail: oaxaca@canada.org.mx
Consular district: Chiapas, Oaxaca

Mexico - PLAYA DEL CARMEN, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: Plaza Paraíso Caribe, Modulo C, Planta 2, Oficina C21 - 24, Av. 10 Sur entre Calle 3 y 5 Sur, M-35, Lote 1, Colonia Centro,77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, México
Tel.: 52 (984) 803-2411
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (984) 803-2665
E-Mail: crmen@international.gc.ca
Consular district: Coast of Quintana Roo, from Puerto Morelos to Tulum, and Cozumel Island

Mexico - PUERTO VALLARTA, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: Plaza Peninsula, Local Sub F, Boulevard Francisco Medina Ascencio 2485, Zona Hotelera Norte, 48300 Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, México
Tel.: 52 (322) 293-0098/293-0099
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (322) 293-2894
E-Mail: pvrta@international.gc.ca
Consular district: Coast of Jalisco, including Puerto Vallarta, and states of Colima and Nayarit

Mexico - SAN JOSÉ DEL CABO, Consular Agency of Canada
Address: Plaza José Green, Local 9, Boulevard Mijares s/n, Colonia Centro, 23400 San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, México
Tel.: 52 (624) 142-4333
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (624) 142-4262
E-Mail: loscabos@canada.org.mx
Consular district: Baja California Sur

Mexico - TIJUANA, Consulate of Canada
Address: Germán Gedovius No.10411-101, Condominio del Parque, Zona Río, 22320 Tijuana, Baja California Norte, México
Tel.: 52 (664) 684-0461
Emergency toll-free to Ottawa: 001-800-514-0129
Fax: 52 (664) 684-0301
E-Mail: tijuana@canada.org.mx
Consular district: Baja California, Sonora

When making long-distance calls within Mexico, callers have to dial 01, the area code, and the number; when calling internationally from Mexico to Canada or the United States, you must dial 001, the area code, and the number. All other international calls from Mexico must be dialled with 00. When calling internationally to Mexico, the country code is 52.

For emergency assistance after hours, call the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City and follow the instructions provided on the recording. You may also call the Emergency Operations Centre in Ottawa toll-free at 001-800-514-0129 or collect at 613-996-8885.

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6. TRAVEL HEALTH

The Public Health Agency of Canada and the World Health Organization (WHO) report on disease outbreaks that occur throughout the world. For the latest travel health advisories and related information, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada’s Travel Health Web site.

The Public Health Agency of Canada strongly recommends that your travel plans include contacting a travel medicine clinic or physician six to eight weeks before departure. Based on your individual risk assessment, a health care professional can determine your need for immunizations and/or preventive medication and advise you on precautions to avoid disease. Travellers are reminded to ensure that their routine (childhood) immunizations (e.g., tetanus, diphtheria, polio, and measles) are up to date.

Standards of medical care may differ from those in Canada. Treatment may be expensive, and payment in advance may be required. Travellers are advised to arrange for medical insurance prior to departure. Prescription medications should be kept in the original container and packed in carry-on luggage.

The Public Health Agency of Canada also recommends that travellers who become sick or feel unwell on their return to Canada seek a medical assessment with their personal physician. Travellers should inform their physician that they have been travelling or living outside of Canada.

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7. ADDITIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION

H1N1 Vaccination

The Public Health Agency of Canada recommends that individuals get vaccinated for the H1N1 flu virus before leaving Canada. Vaccines are only being administered in Mexico by public health authorities and are not available in the private health care system. Buying vaccines outside of the public health system in Mexico is not recommended, as the legitimacy of these vaccines cannot be verified. See our Global Issues page for information on the H1N1 flu virus.

Medical Services

Medical services are easily available in large cities but limited in remote areas. Standards of patient care differ from those in Canada and vary greatly among medical facilities, especially in beach resort areas.

Private hospitals and clinics offer good-quality care but are generally expensive and expect payment in advance. Many will not agree to deal directly with medical insurance companies. Be prepared to pay for treatment yourself and then request a refund. If medical services are required, contact your tour representative or the nearest embassy or consulate of Canada to obtain a list of reputable facilities or physicians in the area. More information is available on the Web site of the Embassy of Mexico in Canada.

Medication

Pharmacies in main cities carry most medication. It is advisable to consult a physician before purchasing medicine manufactured in Mexico. If you take prescription medication, bring along an adequate supply and a copy of the prescription. Ensure that both the generic and trade names of the drug are stated.

To determine whether a particular medication is controlled in Mexico, and requires a prescription from a doctor, consult the Web site (in Spanish only) of the Mexican Federal Commission for Protection Against Health Risks. Medicine cannot be mailed by courier services from Canada.

Health Tips

Mosquito-borne diseases, including malaria and dengue fever, can be a threat, especially during the rainy season. Although health authorities are actively combatting these diseases, travellers should cover up and use mosquito repellent.

Water-borne and food-borne diseases are prevalent. Purify tap water or buy bottled water, and avoid ice cubes. Fruits and vegetables washed in tap water should be disinfected, peeled, or cooked. Purchase only reliably pasteurized and refrigerated products. Choose restaurants carefully. Avoid consuming food or beverages sold by street vendors.

In addition to problems caused by high altitude, travellers to Mexico City may experience health problems caused by air pollution, which is at its peak during the winter months. Individuals with heart, lung, or respiratory problems are advised to consult their doctor before booking their trip.

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8. LAWS AND CUSTOMS

You are subject to local laws. A serious violation may lead to a jail sentence. The sentence will be served in local prisons.

Canadians arrested or detained have the right to contact the responsible Canadian government office (embassy, high commission, etc.) listed in Section 5 above. Arresting officials have a responsibility to assist you in doing so. Canadian consular officials can provide a list of local lawyers upon request.

If you make a statement, you should by law be provided with a translator. Avoid making any arrangements with police or court officials unless your lawyer is present. Do not sign anything in Spanish, if you do not understand the language, without first reviewing the document with your lawyer. You should consult with the Embassy of Canada or one of its Consulates before hiring a lawyer.

The procedures required in legal proceedings or police investigations may be different from the procedures in force in the Canadian legal system. Canadians wishing to undertake such proceedings can expect to face long delays and additional efforts in order to resolve their case. The Government of Canada cannot intervene in ongoing legal proceedings in other countries or regions, unless requested to do so by local authorities. Such requests are rare.

In Mexico, a person can be detained throughout the judicial process until proven innocent or guilty. For more details on the Mexican criminal law system, please see our information sheet.

Illegal Activities

Penalties for breaking the law in Mexico can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. Penalties for drug offences are very strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences. You are strongly advised to avoid any involvement with illegal substances or those who deal with them. You are also strongly advised against borrowing a vehicle or picking up hitchhikers; drivers are legally responsible for their vehicle's contents, as well as for the legal status of passengers and the items carried by passengers.

The Mexican government strictly enforces its laws concerning possession, entry, and trafficking of firearms. Anyone (including foreign armed forces personnel) entering Mexico with a firearm or ammunition without prior written authorization from Mexican authorities is subject to imprisonment. It is also illegal to enter the country with certain types of knives. A complete list of forbidden items and import permit requirements is available from the Embassy of Mexico in Canada.

It is illegal to drink alcoholic beverages in non-designated public areas. The minimum age at which people are legally allowed to purchase or consume alcoholic beverages is 18 years old.

Participation in political activities (such as demonstrations) by foreigners is prohibited and should be avoided, as it may result in detention, deportation, or the denial of future entry into Mexico.

It is illegal to possess archeological artifacts or to export such items from Mexico.

Real Estate

Canadians may acquire real estate in Mexico. However, you should consult a lawyer, as real estate transactions, laws, and practices can be complex and differ considerably from those in Canada. You are advised to choose your own lawyer or notary and not to hire the one recommended by the seller. Mexican real estate agents are not licensed or regulated.

Canadians should research potential property purchases carefully, as irregularities occur. The most frequent irregularities include title challenges, which may result in litigation and possible eviction. Trusts do not guarantee that the purchase is legitimate. Canadians should go to the local Property Registry (Registro de Propiedad) and ask to see the property registry so as to confirm the name of the last owner and the fact that the property is free of any mortgage.

Time-share Agreements

Reports of problems with time-share arrangements (including the cancellation of contracts) have increased. Be prepared for the possibility of being approached by persistent time-share representatives on the street, as well as at the airport or on the way to your hotel. Be prepared for common pressure techniques, such as telling potential customers that promotions are only valid for that day and offering free tours, meals, gifts, or alcoholic beverages.

Before purchasing a time-share, gather as much information as possible, research the properties, and even get a legal opinion. If you do decide to buy, be sure to carefully review the contract. Anything not included in the contract will not be honoured. Only provide your credit card if you are certain you wish to make the purchase. Time-share companies have requested that their clients sign a waiver that prevents them from cancelling the contract. Such practices are illegal. Mexican law stipulates that consumers are legally entitled to cancel a time-share contract without penalty; however, the cancellation must be done within five working days starting from the day following the original date of purchase. Cancellations of contracts must be done in writing and must be presented directly to the time-share company. Keep copies of any correspondence. If you experience any difficulties with a time-share company, you should immediately contact the Mexican consumer protection agency, the Procuraduría Federal del Consumidor (PROFECO). Further information, including points of service throughout Mexico, can be found (in Spanish and English) on PROFECO’s Web site.

Renting

Rental agreements between two individuals in Mexico are considered a private matter and are not regulated by the government. Should you encounter difficulties with a rental agreement and wish to take legal action, you will have to obtain the services of a Mexican lawyer.

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9. TRAVEL AND CURRENCY

Road Safety

Road conditions vary and can be poor in some areas. Dangerous curves, poorly marked signs and construction sites, roaming livestock, slow-moving or abandoned vehicles, and other obstacles pose hazards. Road travel should be limited to daylight hours throughout the country.

Toll (cuota) highways should be used whenever possible, rather than less secure free (libre) roads, where armed robberies and carjacking are more frequent. Overnight stops should be made only in major centres, at reputable hotels or secure campsites.

Mexican styles of driving and road safety standards are very different from those in Canada. Police do not regularly patrol the highways. Be prepared for vehicles that fail to observe speed limits or indicate lane changes, and that do not stop at red lights. Pedestrians should be extremely cautious at all times. Fatal hit-and-run accidents occur. Keep your car doors locked and the windows rolled up, especially at traffic lights, where you can be a target for criminals. For emergency services, dial 060 or 066.

In the event of a vehicle breakdown or roadside emergency, a highway patrol service offered by the Mexican Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) called the Green Angels (Angeles Verdes) provides free assistance on all major toll highways from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. In case of an emergency, dial 078 or the toll-free number in Mexico, 01-800-006-8839.

Canadian driver's licences are valid in Mexico. The police sometimes ask foreigners to show identification and proof of their legal status in Mexico. You should always carry valid photo identification and photocopies of the identification page of your passport, visa, and other documents, and keep the originals in a safe place. It is also recommended that you leave a certified copy of your vehicle registration with relatives or friends in Canada.

Insurance

Canadian automobile insurance is not recognized in Mexico. You must obtain additional insurance at the Mexican border. Full coverage is recommended, including coverage for legal assistance. Automobile insurance is much more expensive in Mexico than in Canada. Many local drivers do not have any form of car insurance.

For more information on Mexican driver's permits, vehicle inspection, road tax, or mandatory insurance, please contact the Mexican Ministry of Tourism (SECTUR) at 1-866-640-0597 (toll-free from Canada).

Accidents

In case of an accident or theft of the vehicle, a police report should immediately be obtained from the nearest police station (Ministerio Público) and presented to the Mexico City customs office (Aduanas) in order to cancel the temporary imporation permit no later than five days after the incident. Canadians involved in traffic accidents may face serious legal problems, including imprisonment. They could be taken into custody until responsibility for the accident is determined and until all penalties are paid. If you do not have Mexican liability insurance, you could be prevented from leaving the country until all parties agree that adequate financial satisfaction has been received. Depending on the extent of injuries or damages, drivers may face criminal charges. Motor vehicle insurance is considered invalid in Mexico if the driver is found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs at the time of the accident, or if the driver has no valid driver's licence.

Driving Restrictions

In order to reduce air pollution, there are time restrictions on driving in Mexico City and in certain regions of the country. Based on licence plate number, there will be at least one day each week and one Saturday per month when driving is forbidden. This applies equally to permanent, temporary, and foreign plates. These regulations are strictly enforced. Offenders face heavy fines and temporary confiscation of their vehicle.

Additionally, a supplementary driving restriction has been implemented in Mexico City. Vehicles without plates from the State of Mexico (Estado de Mexico) or the Federal District (DF) are not allowed to circulate from Monday to Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. For more information, visit the Mexican Ministry of the Environment's website (in Spanish only). Cars with foreign plates may obtain an exemption to this driving restriction by requesting a permit, the Pase Turístico (tourist pass), which is granted either for two periods of 7 days or one period of 14 days in a six-month period. In order to obtain the tourist pass, you must register at http://www.paseturistico.df.gob.mx/ (information in Spanish only).

Public Transportation

Although public transportation is relatively safe, take precautions in airports, bus stations, and the Mexico City metro, which are often very crowded and popular areas for pickpockets. Avoid travelling during rush hour if you can.

Canadians have been robbed on buses, usually at night. Keep an eye on your luggage, money, and personal documents at all times. Bus accidents occur frequently due to speeding, poor road conditions, and mountainous terrain. You should travel during daylight hours and on first-class buses only.

Hitchhiking is not a common practice in Mexico and is not recommended.

Taxis

Travellers should only use hotel taxis or taxis based at designated stands (sitios). In Mexico City, all government-authorized taxis have licence plates starting with an A or a B. Taxis from designated stands have both the logo of their company and the plate number stamped on the side of the car. Always ask the dispatcher for the driver's name and the taxi's licence plate number, model, and colour. Passengers arriving at Benito Juárez Airport in Mexico City should use airport taxis only, after pre-paying the fare inside the airport. Request to see the driver's official ID.

Vehicles

a) Rentals

The contract for a rental vehicle must be in the traveller's name and include a full description of the vehicle.

b) Company-owned vehicles

Travellers must produce proof of employment and of the vehicle’s ownership by the company.

c) Importation

Mexico has very strict rules regarding the entry of foreign motor vehicles. Do not enter Mexico without having obtained the proper vehicle permit and car insurance. Travellers without a permit may be fined and have their vehicle seized. Canadians wishing to travel beyond the border zone (20 to 30 kilometres from the U.S. border) with their car must obtain a Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit (Solicitud de importación temporal de vehículos).

Travellers are allowed to bring only one vehicle into the country at a time. Those travelling with a recreational vehicle are not entitled to tow a second vehicle, unless it is registered in the name of an accompanying traveller. The second vehicle should not exceed the weight limit of 3.5 tons. It is the owner’s responsibility to obtain the permit through the Banco Nacional del Ejército Fuerza Aérea y Armada (available in English and Spanish) or Aduana México (available in English and Spanish) 10 to 180 days before departure. Permits can also be obtained at one of the Mexican consulates located in Austin, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Sacramento, or San Francisco, or at a customs office located along the U.S.-Mexico border or, in some cases, within an authorized border zone. Watch for signs indicating customs checkpoints and Banjercito Bank locations (where permits can be issued and cancelled).

Travellers should contact the Embassy or a consulate of Mexico in Canada to verify the latest regulations and requirements regarding vehicle importation. Complete information (in Spanish and English) is available from Aduana México.

If you stay beyond the date indicated on the Temporary Importation Permit, the vehicle may be seized.

When leaving Mexico, you must return and cancel your Temporary Vehicle Importation Permit in person, along with the vehicle with which you entered the country, to any customs office at the border. Keep a copy of the cancellation documents. Neither the Embassy of Canada in Mexico City nor the Embassy of Mexico in Ottawa can return these permits on behalf of Canadian citizens. It is not permissible to mail your permit to the border point, as it will remain in effect. As long as the permit remains in effect, you will be unable to import another vehicle into Mexico. You may be able to cancel the permit on a future visit to Mexico if you enter at the same border point with the same vehicle; however, a fine may be imposed.

In cases when the permit holder cannot exit the country with the vehicle (e.g. in case of death or sickness), the person driving the car out of Mexico must be a foreigner with a valid tourist card and have documentation to prove the relationship with the car owner, such as a marriage or birth certificate.

d) Purchasing/Selling

Foreigners wishing to purchase a car in Mexico must be holders of either a Visitor’s Visa or a Resident Visa as proof that they reside in Mexico and are therefore able to pay vehicle taxes and obtain Mexican licence plates. In some states, tourists are not authorized to purchase vehicles in Mexico. Canadian tourists interested in buying a car should verify with the local authorities of their place of residence.

It is illegal to sell your imported vehicle in Mexico. If you do, your vehicle may be seized and you may be subject to a fine and deportation.

See our FAQ on transportation in order to verify if national airlines meet safety standards.

The currency is the Mexican peso (MXN/MXV). ABM services are available throughout the country. Canadian debit cards are widely used; however, Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted.

New regulations limit the amount of U.S. dollars that both residents and foreigners can exchange in Mexico. The amount that can be exchanged varies depending on your immigration status in Mexico. Although the rule does not apply to Canadian dollars, some financial institutions, hotels, and currency exchanges are not making the distinction. Travellers should contact a financial institution or hotel at their destination in Mexico before leaving for more information on the application of the exchange regulation.

Canadian currency and traveller's cheques are not widely accepted worldwide. Check with your bank for information on automated banking machine (ABM) services outside Canada. You can also check the VISA ATM locator page or the MasterCard ATM locator page for the addresses of ABMs around the world. Verify with your financial institution whether your bank card can be used with ABMs abroad. Some countries use chip and/or personal identification number (PIN) technology for credit cards. Check with your bank to find out if your credit card will be accepted abroad. Credit cards and debit cards should be used with caution due to the potential for fraud and other criminal activity. ABMs should be used during business hours inside a bank, supermarket, or large commercial building. Leave copies of your card numbers with a family member in case of emergency.

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10. NATURAL DISASTERS AND CLIMATE

The hurricane season extends from June to the end of November, and may affect both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. You are advised to visit the Web site of the National Hurricane Center for information on weather conditions. You should stay informed of regional weather forecasts and heed the warnings of local authorities.

During the rainy season, from June to November, flooding and mudslides may occur in some areas, including Mexico City. Travellers should be aware that transportation routes may be affected, and Canadians travelling to possible affected areas should contact their airline or tour operator to determine whether the situation will disrupt travel arrangements. They should also exercise caution, monitor local news and weather reports, and follow the advice of local authorities.

Mexico is located in an active seismic zone. For further information, visit the Web site of the National Seismological Institute in Mexico (in Spanish only).

Some volcanoes in Mexico are active. Updated information on the status of volcanoes can be found at http://www.ucol.mx/volcan (in Spanish) or from CENAPRED (in English).

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11. ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Returning to Canada

Traveller's Checklist

Health and Travel Insurance: Do not rely on your provincial health plan to cover all expenses if you get sick or are injured while abroad. It may cover nothing or only a portion of the costs. Understand the terms of your supplementary insurance policy. Some credit cards offer their holders health and travel insurance. Do not assume the card alone provides adequate coverage. Carry details of your insurance with you. Also, tell your travel agent, a friend or relative, and/or travelling companion how to contact your insurer. Get a detailed invoice from the doctor or hospital before you return to Canada. Always submit original receipts for any medical services or prescriptions received abroad. Most insurance companies will not accept copies or faxes.

Cancelling a scheduled trip abroad could cost you money. Before cancelling a scheduled trip, you should discuss the matter with your travel agent, your travel insurer, or the airline. The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller.

Adoption: Provincial and territorial authorities in Canada are responsible for authorizing international adoptions. If you are thinking of adopting a child abroad, you must first obtain information about the adoption regulations of the province or territory in which the child will reside. While adoption is a provincial/territorial responsibility, Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC) is responsible for allowing an adopted child entry into Canada. Entry can be refused if the child does not hold the appropriate immigrant visa. A visa may be denied, even if the adoption has already been completed. For more information contact CIC at 1 888 242-2100 (in Canada only), check the CIC Web site or contact your provincial or territorial government.

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